We left the farm with the intention of finding a pre Incan trail that drops from Toacazo to Sigchos (in the heart of the ecuadorian Andes). From Sigchos we wanted to weave our way up the mountains passing through Quilotoa and Guangaje to finally close the circle where we started. When possible our loop will favor single track and remote double track instead of bigger and generally easier roads that abound on the area. Time wise we where limited to a short but powerful overnighter.

The crew included 4 bikes (one 29+, one 27.5+ and two 2.4' 29ers), Rupango (the dog) came along as well. We packed light considering that the terrain will be fairly technical and that some hike a'bike was out of question (it always is...).

To Summarize: The trail is there, it was not easy to find but once on it it was a gem. Mostly rideable and pretty espectacular. The rest of the loop has amazing riding possibilities as well. Two days is not enough, we had to hitch a ride to gain some km in order to finish. You can easily take 3-4 days to close the loop. One of our bikes was stolen overnight only to be found later hidden on some bushes, a good reminder that even on remote areas there are bitchy people. The area in general has a lot to offer for bikepacking adventures whether you are passing by or looking for a short loop. Cheers!

-- En la mañana no todo fue sonrisas. Algun choro de paramo se llevo una bici que encontramos despues escondida en unos matorrales. Uff!-- Morning was not all smiles. We woke up to a missing bike and its gear. Found it later hidden on some nearby bushes.

-- Entre medio del pedal, un poco de papas con pollo, empanadas de viento y Pilsener ayudan a aflojar las piernas.-- In between we enjoyed some local food, met some new friends and grabbed a few Pilsener's to ease out the gradient of the climbs.

Amigo, Rupango did growl and complained but Mathias shut him down. Idiots. Bike was right in front of my tent, door of the tent was open, Sneaky bustard anyway...I woke up early and started tracking for the thief. Soon we found the bike covered up with bushes and close by all the bags. Lucky! Tie your bikes compañero!